This summer, the fashion world is going under the sea with the rising trend of mermaidcore. What was once a niche subculture has now become a mainstream style, focused on emulating the allure of mythical sea creatures through clothing, makeup, and hair. To achieve the mermaidcore aesthetic, think crochet, pleats, bikini tops, shiny embellishments, prints, and shimmering fabrics in shades of blue, green, and purple. Pair these elements with aqua-inspired eyeshadow and iridescent glitter to create a mesmerizing look. Effortless waves or loose curls are perfect for hairstyling, and don't forget to add shell or pearl accessories for that extra touch of mermaid magic.
Nazlia Yunus, founder of Chvker Jewelry and a makeup influencer, has embraced the mermaidcore trend in her viral videos. She shares her inspiration with Teen Vogue, saying, "I’ve always been drawn to the allure of the beach and summertime—it’s where I find myself in a state of ease and serenity. I actually came across this mesmerizing shade of sea foam green eyeshadow, and I was instantly reminded of the beauty of a mermaid." One of the key aspects of the trend highlighted by Yunus is its free-flowing nature, allowing individuals to use items they already have to create their own version of the mermaidcore style, without the need to buy new things.
Pop culture has also played a significant role in the rise of mermaidcore. The release of the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid starring Halle Bailey and Dua Lipa's portrayal of Mermaid Barbie in the upcoming Barbie movie have generated excitement. Additionally, classics like Aquamarine and H2O: Just Add Water continue to resonate with "TikTok teens."
Mermaidcore has taken TikTok by storm, with longtime enthusiasts and newly inspired fans sharing their mermaid-inspired looks. Influencer Chazlyn Yvonne, who has gone viral for her mermaidcore content, explains, "Seeing Halle Bailey take on the role [of Ariel] as a Black woman who I am often compared to has encouraged me to embrace the mermaidcore and siren core aesthetic this summer." Yvonne also attributes the current rise of mermaidcore on social media to the anticipation surrounding The Little Mermaid movie.
While mermaidcore is making waves in pop culture and social media, the fashion industry has long been submerged in this aesthetic. Versace's seashell and starfish print from the '90s is a signature symbol that has been modernized over the years. Blumarine's Y2K-inspired pieces also embody mermaidcore, and their spring 2003 ready-to-wear collection featured designs that seemed straight out of a mermaid movie.
More recently, Bach Mai showcased a siren-inspired collection at New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2023, featuring mermaid silhouettes, shimmering fabrics, and iridescent makeup. Megan Thee Stallion made a splash on the red carpet wearing a mermaid gown by Bach Mai. Halle Bailey, the embodiment of Ariel, has sported various high-fashion mermaid-inspired looks on her recent press run, including a metallic blue dress by Valdrin Sahiti, a white number with silver embellishments and a matching headpiece from Miss Sohee, and an off-white gown adorned with silver for the Australian premiere of The Little Mermaid.
As the mermaidcore trend continues to make waves, embracing this sea-inspired aesthetic allows fashion lovers to dive into a world of enchantment and effortless beauty. So, this summer, channel your inner mermaid and let the magic unfold.
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